Studentships at the BSA

Why apply for a BSA Studentship?

The BSA offers an invaluable opportunity for postgraduate researchers to engage deeply with the rich historical, archaeological, cultural and intellectual heritage of Greece. Our Studentships are designed to support outstanding students in pursuing original research in fields aligned with the BSA’s mission, including archaeology, history, Classics, art history, modern Greek studies, Mediterranean studies and other humanities disciplines. Based in Athens, with access to the BSA’s library, archives, laboratory and academic networks, recipients will gain an immersive experience in one of Europe’s top centres for Hellenic studies.

The British School at Athens offers three fellowships (for up to 10 months) for postdoctoral or advanced doctoral (normally 4th year) research in any area covered by the BSA’s research foci. By historical convention these awards are referred to as ‘Studentships’. Applications are open to researchers engaged in advanced postgraduate or postdoctoral research at UK universities. During their tenure of an award, students are expected to be resident at the BSA in Athens and undertake their fieldwork and will be expected to contribute to its scholarly life and administrative operation. The holders of awards may re-apply for a second tenure, subject to academic performance. The fellowship is funded at the AHRC’s London-based rate for postgraduate awards.

The BSA is both the primary centre of British research in Greece for resident and visiting scholars and a hub of international research through its programme of seminars and conferences, and it is the co-ordinating body for British archaeological fieldwork.

What we offer

• Financial support: Studentships provide funding to support accommodation at the BSA and living expenses.
• Research resources: Access to the BSA’s outstanding Library facilities, Archive, the Fitch Laboratory for science-based archaeology, the Knossos Research Centre as well as local networks of scholars and academic institutions.
• Professional development: Beyond research, Studentship holders have opportunities for teaching, they become part of an international scholarly community, presenting at seminars, interacting with visiting fellows, and building a track record of high-quality scholarship.

Testimonials

I have benefitted hugely from the input and advice of many scholars, met heroes and made new ones as well as making friends for life – Elizabeth Foley, former recipient (2022-23)

The most thrilling aspect of my experience at the BSA … has been the possibility to be part of a stimulating intellectual and social environment – Marcella Giobe, former recipient (2021-22)

All this makes the BSA the ideal location to conduct archaeological research in a dynamic and thriving environment – Rossana Valente, former recipient (2020-21)

Being in Athens has allowed me to develop my co-operation with the Ephorate of Antiquities of the Cyclades, and with members of the other foreign schools working in my area – Hallvard Indgjerd, former recipient (2018-19)

Who can apply?

Studentships are open to advanced-doctoral and early post-doctoral researchers undertaking research that aligns with the BSA’s thematic remit. Applications are automatically considered for all studentships. We welcome applicants who:

• demonstrate high standards of academic excellence and are undertaking innovative research either in an established discipline, or of an inter-disciplinary nature.
• have completed at least one year of doctoral research by the time they take up the award. Holders of AHRC or equivalent awards eligible for overseas study support within the terms of their grant will not normally be considered.
• show how their research will benefit from the BSA’s resources and its Greek context

Application process

Applicants should submit through the online portal a CV and research proposal (maximum 1,000 words) which includes:

1. 1. A brief statement of the research question or questions,
   2. An outline of the overall research programme in its scholarly context,
   3. A timetable for completion,
   4. The benefits for the research of residence in Greece based at the BSA.

The names, addresses, telephone numbers and email addresses of two academic referees, whom the candidate has contacted in advance and who have agreed to supply letters of reference. Referees will receive on submission of the application an email asking them to send their reference letters via a link by the closing date Applications are automatically considered for all studentships. Applicants should be prepared to attend an online interview in late March/early April.

Applications should be submitted via this link Friday 27th February 2026.

By becoming a BSA School Student, you will

• Join an internationally renowned research institute.
• Work amidst Athens’ lively academic, archaeological and cultural environment.
• Receive dedicated support to help you launch or shape your research career.
• Build lasting connections with scholars, academic institutions and networks across Greece and beyond.

We look forward to receiving your application

For questions or further details, please contact us at school.administrator@bsa.ac.uk